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Substance over Technology: Tools, Tasks & Takeways

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Is technology a stumbling block for you? Does a lack of internet connection ruin your day?

There are two extremes to technology use in the classroom; with a full range in between. On the one hand, there are teachers who utilize technology tools because they feel that it is the ‘thing to do.’ They are creating Powerpoints instead of overheads, using YouTube Videos in lieu of VHS. They have embraced technology as far as they feel comfortable. If you mention blogging, or hashtags, they bear a panicked look–hoping beyond hope they can retire before anyone notices their Smart Board is covered in dust. On the other hand, there are teachers who have plunged classrooms into the deep end of the technological pool. Every day they use something technology-based with their students. They’ve logged hours upon hours on the in-school COWS, and have a ‘app’ for everything. They use so much technology, students are beginning to forget how to write with pen and paper. Both of these extremes exist; fortunately, the majority of teachers fall somewhere in the middle.

Technology doesn’t need to be the centre of your classroom. It also doesn’t need to be a pain in the you-know-what. Think of technology in two ways: as a teaching tool, and as a learning tool. By combining both tools, you should be able to create a dynamic and modern learning environment for your students, where technology makes tasks easier, and takeaways more magical.

Never feel pressured to teach with technology, 100% of the time. For example, does it make more sense to use a tablet for notes in math than an old-fashion overhead? Of course! Notes can be reused and saved, rather than erased…plus, no more overhead pen all over your hands! Technology as a teaching tool can make your classroom a better place for not only your students, but for you as a teacher. How you incorporate it is up to you, and I encourage you to find new ways to give notes and lessons, be it through presentation software, or perhaps Skyping with an expert. You don’t need to use it all the time, but at least find way to use it sometimes, and always for the betterment of student learning rather than for the sake of technology. Technology tools should make daily or weekly tasks, like notes, easier and more engaging. When technology is used as a learning tool, students are given the opportunity to learn new technology, but how to use technology as a tool rather than a toy (see HERE for a post about that). When there is sound, pedagogical reasoning behind using technology as a learning tool when it comes to students, good things happen. When students use technology to explore, to engage and to demonstrate their learning, the takeway factor is magic. Don’t be afraid to discontinue the use of technology if it isn’t positively impacting learning in your classroom or if students aren’t yet ready to use it for learning. Find another way, another tool, that does work for your students.

And above all, when using technology in your classroom–for teaching or otherwise–make sure that what you are doing has substance. Make sure that you are utilizing technology as a tool for learning, that the tool hasn’t taken over the teaching. Remember: Substance should always win over technology.